Third way architecture: Between cybernetics and phenomenology

Abstract

This article in its essence aims to challenge and unfold, each at a time, two different fields of methodology-cybernetics and phenomenology-that have direct effects on the product of being and the process of becoming in architectural discourse. Furthermore, this article suggests a third way philosophy for architecture that relates notions of post-phenomenology and technoscience, and considers both to be equally vital to development and speculation within current architectural discourse. First, the history of each of the two fields-cybernetics and phenomenology-will be unveiled with a focus on exploring their impact upon architecture in particular and diverse fields such as other art disciplines, computer science and psychology. Second, a critique of the historic rivalry between pioneers in each of the two fields will be unpacked through their errors and limits. Third, the article will discuss attempts at converging the two fields in order to address the relationship of notions of humanism, machinism and technology. Finally, a declaration of the characteristics of such a convergence that will lead to a third way philosophy for architectural discourse will be asserted.

The Time House: between cybernetics and phenomenology

“…These debates have their roots in the conflict between phenomenology and cybernetics, which, as Sana Murrani notes, 'comes in the form of dispute over the meaning and the extent of the involvement of technology in our daily lives, existence, and consciousness'. 72 The pioneer cybernetician, Norbert Wiener, believed that information technologies are 'bound to devalue the human brain'; 73 however, as Martin Heidegger points out, Wiener's critique of information technologies is underlaid by the belief that 'Man [is] an information [device].' 74 According to Heidegger, the threat of technology to human beings is more fundamental, precisely illustrated by Wiener's understanding of human beings as devices: technology has the potential to construct a system within which humans become mechanical parts assigned a function.…”

The Socio-Temporary in Architecture

“…The connotations and interpretations of the word Singularity were not limited to the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), but rather extended to its use in architecture on a socio-worldmaking level . (Murrani, 2011).…”